One item at the meeting was the presentation by representatives from the Haddon Township Education Foundation, who delivered a check for $177,000 to the school board. This funding is designated for educational grants that support various initiatives within the district. The foundation detailed its process for grant solicitation, emphasizing the valuable input from teachers in the application process. Proposals are submitted online and undergo a rigorous review by a committee of retired teachers, the principal, and the superintendent’s office. This collaborative approach ensures that the most impactful projects receive funding. Notably, the foundation raised $50,000 in the previous year and aims to distribute around $40,000 in grants annually. They have also established an endowment, currently at $20,000, with a goal of reaching $1 million to secure continuous funding for future grants. The foundation seeks public contributions to bolster this endowment and engage potential significant donors for larger contributions.

Educational initiatives funded by the foundation include translation services for English Language Learners. Additionally, the acquisition of graphing calculators, tied to improved mathematics performance, was highlighted as a key project supported by the grants.

Student representatives Joe and Mar provided insights into student activities and concerns. They reported successful recent events, such as a dance and a community gathering, and shared positive feedback regarding “Challenge Day.” However, they conveyed concerns about traffic congestion in the eighth-grade hall and the uncertain graduation venue. The possibility of relocating the graduation ceremony if the football field is unavailable was a significant topic among seniors. Students expressed a strong preference for keeping the ceremony within the Haddon Township, possibly at the turf or baseball field, rather than moving to another school. They emphasized the need for adequate seating arrangements.

The meeting also covered updates on arts and athletics. The HT Madrigal group achieved success at a Renaissance Fair, and the RMS play, “The Day the Internet Died,” was a hit, with recognition given to the behind-the-scenes efforts of contributors like Art Theater Tech director Matt Gallagher. The school’s field hockey and soccer teams were celebrated for their seasons, with standout athletes such as Ellie Smith and Kristen Cahan being acknowledged. The HT rowing program excelled at The Head of the Charles Regatta, and the football team marked an achievement with its first home playoff game since 1998.

In the finance and facilities section, the board discussed audit updates and additional funding sources. They plan to implement an electronic payment system called Jack Rabbit by January. Curriculum revisions and the performance review process were also addressed, with the introduction of a new math program called Crazy8, aimed at engaging students from Pre-K to grade five.

The board discussed mental health and wellness support initiatives, including a new app to assist middle school students. They also began budget preparation conversations to ensure resources align with district goals. The personnel section covered staffing challenges and a request from homeschooled students to participate in extracurricular activities. The committee plans to revisit policies regarding this matter, considering implications for both homeschooled and in-district students.

Policy revisions were a key focus, with an emphasis on aligning attendance policies across different school levels. The board plans to continue these discussions in the coming months. Community members, including Chris Cook and Nicole Glazbrook, expressed their views during the public comment period. Cook revisited the idea of allowing elementary students to bike to school, while Glazbrook advocated for homeschooled children’s participation in school activities.